Large Crowd Helps Re-open All Star Park

More than 100 residents crowded into All-Star Park & Pavilion for official dedication ceremonies Sunday afternoon and heard praise from town officials and community residents alike for the facility and the community cooperation that made it possible.

Community resident Janet Richardson, whose Mt. Vernon Christian Church Dancing Angels provided entertainment for the assembled crowd, called the upgraded park "a special place."

"It's a blessing," she told the crowd. "It's a blessing that we know our children can come here to play."

Town Councilman R.S. "Butch" Lawter said the project "is unique in the amount of community involvement we've had."

"I remember when I first moved here, this is the first park I came to with my daughters," Lawter said. "I look at it now, and it's amazing. I hope that this will be a place where many happy times will be shared."

Full Article on All Star Park Dedication

What's in the small business bill for you? - Triangle Business Journal

How about if you are a sole proprietor, you can deduct your health insurance premiums or if you are looking for a micro loan, you now can get as much as $50,000, rather than $25,000. There are a lot of other provisions in this bill that could open up some financial doors for you. Read more:What's in the small business bill for you? - Triangle Business Journal

Chamber Ribbon Cutting - The Loft Hair Lounge

The Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting at The Loft Hair Lounge, 316 E Main Street this morning, as a new member of the Chamber. Cortney Trasti opened The Loft last August and has two other hair stylists, Dee Norris and Adi Coor. They are located on the second floor above Main Street Seafood Restaurant, with entrance in the rear of the building. 359-6246.  (photo above - l-r Jim Godfrey, Executive Director, Clayton Chamber; Cortney Trasti, Adi Coor, Dee Norris)

October 2 - Clayton Oktoberfest Has Been Cancelled...

Please note that the Clayton Oktoberfest, originally scheduled for this Saturday, has been CANCELLED. Organizers are looking at resuming the event in 2011, but it will not happen this weekend.

JUST ADDED: Restaurants in Downtown Clayton Blog

We've just added a new blog - Restaurants in Downtown Clayton - so you can quickly check hours, menus and links to downtown Clayton's seven restaurants! The web address is http://restaurantsindowntownclayton.blogspot.com/ but you can also access it by clicking on the link in the "Helpful and Interesting Links" column to the right!

"Cash Flow Management for Small Business Owners" - SBA Monthly Web Chat

The Small Business Administration will host their monthly web chat on Thursday, September 30, 2010, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

************

The SBA’s monthly web chat will highlight advice and information on how small businesses can effectively manage cash flow. Participants can learn more about issues that impact cash flow and how to make projections that work.

WHO: Julie Brander, small busines

s mentor and coach, and past chapter chair of SCORE New Haven will host the September web chat on “Cash Flow Management.” Brander will offer tips and advice on effective cash flow management for your business, and answer questions about how to plan and prepare for the future and for changes in the market.

WHAT: SBA’s web chat series provides small business owners with an opportunity to discuss relevant business issues online with experts, industry leaders and successful entrepreneurs. Chat participants have direct, real-time access to the web chats via questions they submit online in advance, and during the live session.

WHEN: September 30, 2010,

1 p.m. ET

Brander will answer questions for one hour.

HOW: Participants can join the live Web chat by going online to http://www.sba.gov/, and clicking “Online Business Chat.” Web chat participants may also post questions before the September 30th chat by visiting
http://web.sba.gov/livemeeting/Sep10/

To review archives of past web chats, visit online at http://www.sba.gov/tools/monthlywebchat/index.html

Blinson House Makes Way For Clayton Law Enforcement Center

For the past year, the Town of Clayton has tried to save the Blinson House, 317 E Second Street by offering incentives for private property owners and developers to move the house to an empty parcel within Clayton's Historic District. There were no takers.

The house was on property the Town purchased some years ago in anticipation of expanding the Clayton Police Department. Design of the new Clayton Law Enforcement Center was completed recently, and construction is getting ready to begin. Because the initial financing arrangement for the CLEC was with US Department of Agriculture, which is federally-funded, the State Historic Preservation Office required the Town to preserve the building. The Blinson House was a contributing structure to the Clayton Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. If the Town could move the house to another site within the historic district, then everything would be fine. The problem was limited inventory of appropriate vacant property, where a relocation and renovation would make sense.

Town staff worked agressively to find a property owner interested in the building and consulted with Preservation NC to help develop a package and locate potential owners to no avail. Recently, the Town Council approved a financing package through a local lender which would actually help pay-off the project sooner and cost a little less than the USDA financing.

So, last week a demolition crew arrived and took down the Blinson House to make way for the Clayton Law Enforcement Center.

Town Lot Project Update

For the latest update and some photos of the Town Lot Project at Lombard & Main Street, visit the project blog at http://claytontownlotproject.blogspot.com/

All-Star Park Dedication Ceremonies Oct. 3

Official dedication ceremonies for the upgraded All-Star Park and Pavilion on Front Street have been scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 3 from 4 to 6 pm, and everyone is invited.


Mayor Jody McLeod, Parks & Recreation Director Larry Bailey, Town Councilmen and other community leaders will be on hand for formal ribbon-cutting ceremonies. Festivities will also include performances by local youth, activities on the basketball court and refreshments. (MORE)

Just What Is A "Small Busineess"? and Other Frequently Asked Questions

What is a small business? How many small businesses are there? What share of net new jobs do small businesses create? These are questions the Small Business Administration's Office of Advocacy receives on a daily basis. To respond to these and other pressing queries, Advocacy has updated its Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).  The Frequently Asked Questions is located at http://www.sba.gov/advo/stats/sbfaq.pdf.

The one-pager, front and back, is begging to be push-pinned to workspaces for anyone who wants a quick reference guide on the status and role of small businesses in America.

But not to leave you hanging. . . Advocacy usually defines a firm as small if it has fewer than 500 employees; 27.5 million businesses were estimated for 2009 and almost all were small; and smalls create 65 percent of the net new jobs.

Town Seeks Volunteers to Staff Information Desk at The Clayton Center

Town officials are looking for volunteers to help staff the Town Hall Information Desk at The Clayton Center left vacant by budget cuts.


Primary responsibilities include welcoming and directing visitors to the proper departments in both Town Hall and The Clayton Center and providing general information about the community.

"There's a need to have somebody there during the day," said Parks & Recreation Director Larry Bailey. "There's still a lot of new people coming into town who don't know much about the town or where things are. Once we get a group of volunteers, we'll try to match their schedules."

Already, members of several arts related and civic groups have come forward to volunteer. Officials hope to be able to staff the Desk with volunteers from 10 am to 2 or 3 pm each weekday.

Those interested should complete this form and submit to Larry Bailey, Parks & Recreation Director at lbailey@townofclaytonnc.org. Volunteers should plan to attend a volunteer training on Monday, October 18 from 3-5pm.

Perfect Day for the Clayton Harvest & Music Festival

The Clayton Harvest & Music Festival, sponsored by the Clayton Chamber of Commerce on Saturday was a bit different than in the past, but retained a lot of the same activities. The Farmers Market was moved to W Main Street, adjacent to the Town Square where the market usually resides on Saturday mornings, while a stage, beer garden and vendors were located on the Town Square. 120 or more antique cars were on display on Main Street from Fayetteville Street to Church Street and up the side roads.

School bands, athletic performances and other activities took place in the Clayton Mart parking lot and then the more than 150 vendors of all types lined both sides of Main Street almost to Smith Street, where there was another stage with performances all day. A petting zoo with Noah's Ark Ministries was a great hit, and there were contests such the Hot Dog Eating Contest across the street from Jone's Lunch Cafe. Music was also ongoing at The Flipside all afternoon and evening. Of course, the carnival rides are always a big hit and they were locatred behind HTR/Main Street Seafood/Avent-Permenter Group building next to the Town Lot which is under construction. No official estimate of the number of attendees is yet available.

Of course, the Clayton Idol Competition, emceed by WQDR's Marty "the One Man Party" Young was a great hit at the West Stage (Town Square) with 10 finalists - 5 in the 5-11 year old age group and 5 in the 12-18 year old age group. Taylor Leopold, a 16 year old singer songwriter, is the 2010 Clayton Idol. She performed an original song "Missing You". Jordan Hines won the younger age group competition; Mackenzie Roberts won the older group competition.

2010 Clayton Harvest & Music Festival Schedule & Map

DDA To Present Near-Final Draft of Updated Downtown Master Plan to Town Council September 20

The Town Council will get a first look at the "near-final" draft of the updated Downtown Master Plan to incorporate their comments in the final version. Boo Carver, Design Committee Chair for the Downtown Development will introduce the presentation. In a letter to the Council, Ms Carver said, "The DDA has reviewed this document and feel this is a good, useful tool to move downtown Clayton forwwrd with public and private investment."

The Downtown Master Plan concentrates on the commercial district of downtown from Robertson Street to US 70 Business. Downtown Development Coordinator Bruce Naegelen said, "The master plan provides a general framework for the development of downtown and to provide reasonable certainty and predictability for investors." He added, "The architectural and design guidelines are also being updated and will help shape growth in a way that preserves Clayton's character."

This past spring about 25 downtown business and property owners, as well as others attended two workshops to provide input into updating the 9 year old plan. Mr. Naegelen said there aren't many significant changes in the layout, but the feedback was very helpful.

DRAFT MAPS 2010   Section 1 Design    Section 2 Architecture

Stuff 4 Office Expands to Larger Space on Main Street

Ben Griffin opened Stuff 4 Office in the spring of 2008 at 417 E Main Street. Two and a half years later he was bursting at the seams in his 500 square foot storefront and needed more space. That opportunity presennted itself recently when the space at 421 E Main became available and he moved in.

Stuff 4 Office, 421 E Main Street has computer supplies, computers, repairs and Fed Ex mailing. (800) 383-9043.

From The Flipside...

FlipSide Lunch and Dinner Specials...


Lunch-
Michael Angelo Pizza with Ham,Salami,and pepperoni with Mozzarella and shaved Parmesan cheeses.Your choice of sauce Pesto,Garlic oil,or Marinara.$8.50

$5 Angus 1/4 lb. Burger with lettuce,tomato,and onion on a Kaiser with reg. F.F.

Turkey Panini-Sliced Turkey breast with Gouda cheese and fresh sliced tomatoes on a hearty white bread toasted in a panini press.Served with choice of side.$7.50

Dinner-
Caribbean Glazed Seared Tuna-8 oz steak of Yellowfin Tuna seasoned and seared then topped with a Caribbean glaze. Served with Coconut Basmati rice and fresh veg.$14

Maple BBQ Ribeye-12 oz. Ribeye steak seasoned and grilled to your liking then topped with a Maple BBQ glaze.Served with beer battered onion rings and fresh veg.$14

Sherry Cream Angel Hair with Grilled Chicken-A Sherry cream sauce with shallots,fresh cherry tomatoes,and thyme.Tossed with Angel Hair Pasta and Grilled Chicken.$13 Served with side salad and bread.

Events

9/14 - Open Mic w/Tracy Wiebeck - 9:00 PM

9-15 Open Mic Coffee Mill

9/16 - Karaoke, DJ Ray - 9:00 PM

9/17 - Mister Mustard Band - 9:00 PM

9/18 - Harvest Fest
       1-4 PM- 50/50 Band
       6-8 PM Johnny Orr
       9 PM Till Close - Will McBride Band

9/20 - We are having a special St. Jude's Benefit
      6- 8PM Johnny Orr
      8-10 PM Brad Benson
     10 - Close Under Lair Band

Living Legends Headline Eighth Palladian Series at The Clayton Center - Tickets Now Available!

Tickets for individual shows to the 2010-2011 Palladian Series went on sale September 8 at 10am. The upcoming Palladian Series promises to rival even the most successful of The Clayton Center’s past seasons.


Heidi Stump, executive director of The Clayton Center, said, “The 2010-2011 lineup is an exciting assortment of entertainment. This year’s artists are truly legendary, and we are thrilled to offer our audience the opportunity to see them perform locally.”

The eighth Palladian Series opens on Saturday, Oct. 23, with the “Hemi Guy,” comedian Jon Reep. Winner of NBC’s Last Comic Standing and star of the popular Dodge hemi commercials, Reep fashions himself a “Metro Jethro” – a small-town Southern man who lives a big city life and who delights in the humor he finds in both worlds. Reep is presented by Music City Artists.

The world renowned Blind Boys of Alabama perform on Saturday, Nov. 6. The five-time Grammy winners are praised for their remarkable interpretations of everything from traditional gospel favorites to contemporary spiritual material by songwriters such as Tom Waits, Ben Harper and Eric Clapton.

The 2010-2011 Palladian Series also brings back to Clayton audience favorite Kathy Mattea in her holiday show, Songs and the Season, on Friday, Dec. 3. The show – an intimate, acoustic reinvention of Mattea’s hugely popular Christmas albums – is a spiritual performance that brings joy and reverence to the holiday celebration.

“Kathy Mattea performed a sold-out show here in spring 2009,” Stump said. “Our patrons loved her, and she was very impressed with The Clayton Center audience. We are extremely fortunate that she is returning to perform her special holiday presentation.”

The Palladian Series continues in 2011 with the sixth annual Blues Bash on Friday, Jan. 21. Blues Bash VI: Superharps showcases legendary blues harmonica player James “Superharp” Cotton. Sixty-five years into his career, Cotton continues to thrill audiences with his own, high-energy brand of blues harmonica. Appearing with Cotton is the Tad Walters Trio.

Australian guitarist Tommy Emmanual – one of the greatest living acoustic guitar players – comes to Clayton on Saturday, Feb. 26. Recognized internationally as the elite of the elite, Emmanuel’s unforgettable showmanship, flawless guitar skills and voluminous repertoire dazzles audiences worldwide.

The 2010-2011 Palladian Series wraps up on Friday, April 1, with the incomparable vocal stylings of Dianne Reeves. The multi-Grammy Award winning Reeves is just as comfortable singing jazz standards as she is crooning contemporary pop favorites. Her clear and powerful voice is reminiscent of jazz greats Sarah Vaughn, Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday.

The Clayton Center also presents a bonus show on Sunday, March 13. Colin Hay, former frontman for ’80s sensation Men At Work, has garnered a new generation of fans in his two decades of solo work. Hay’s performances intersperse his classics — “Down Under,” “Overkill” and “Who Can It Be Now?” — with recent releases and with stories drawn from his often unbelievable experiences over the past 30 years.

All shows in the 2010-2011 Palladian Series begin at 8 p.m. in the renovated and historic 600-seat auditorium at 111 E. Second St. in downtown Clayton, located about 15 miles east of Raleigh.

Season tickets for the Palladian Series are $135. Tickets to individual performances are Jon Reep, $25; Blind Boys of Alabama with John Dee Holeman; $27.50; Kathy Mattea, $29; Blues Bash VI with James Cotton and Tad Walters Trio, $25; Tommy Emmanuel, $25; Colin Hay, $22; and Dianne Reeves, $27.50.

Tickets may be purchased by phone at 919-553-1737, at The Clayton Center Box Office from 10 a.m. until noon and from 1 until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, or online at http://www.theclaytoncenter.com/.

Other popular artists presented in past seasons at The Clayton Center include Ricky Skaggs, Johnny Winter, Jesse Cook, Jim Brickman, Doc Watson, Eileen Ivers, Riders In the Sky, the Harlem Gospel Choir and David Sedaris.

Clayton Harvest & Music Festival Sept. 15-19 Has New Look

The annual Clayton Harvest Festival, coming up Sept. 15-19, has a new name and a new look this year. The event is sponsored by the Clayton Chamber of Commerce.


The new name is Clayton Harvest & Music Festival. The new look includes live music at various locations, an additional event stage, a petting zoo and a beer garden. But, one thing that should remain the same is the huge crowds the Festival brings downtown. Last year's Festival attracted more than 18,000 people, and even larger crowds are expected this year.

"The Festival is always the biggest event of the year, and we look forward to it all year long," said Mayor Jody McLeod. "This is shaping up to be the best one we've ever had."

The carnival comes to town Wednesday, Sept. 15 ushering in a week of games, music, the annual Clayton Idol competition, an antique car show and the huge Saturday Arts & Crafts Fair downtown.

"The Clayton Harvest and Music festival is a place where you can stroll and be happy, where you can listen to music, look at art, find a one of a kind masterpiece, catch up with old friends and enjoy traditional carnival games and rides," said Festival Committee Chairman James Lipscomb."Our focus for this and future festivals is to promote inclusiveness and celebrating the talents and diversity of our community. We have retained all the beloved features of past festivals and added several new venues."

A new addition this year that's expected to draw a crowd is the Gospel Sing Friday evening which features music from eight local congregations. This year's Festival will also feature a hot dog eating contest, pet trick demonstrations presented by the Johnston County Animal Protection League, a martial arts demonstration and beer and wine gardens at the East and West stages.

Though not officially part of the Festival schedule, beach music greats The Embers will be in concert Thursday evening, Sept. 16 at Town Square as part of the Town Square Concert Series. The Coffee Mill and Flipside will feature both indoor and outdoor performances on Saturday, Sept. 18, adding to the abundance of musical options.

Festival Schedule:

Wednesday, Sept. 15
• Carnival from 5 -11 pm

Thursday, Sept. 16
• Carnival from 5 -11 pm

Friday, Sept. 17
• Carnival from 5 -11 pm
• Gospel Sing at 6:10 pm at the West Stage

Saturday, Sept. 18
• Carnival Rides & Games – All Day
• Vendor Craft Show – 9-5
• Antique Car Show – 9 -5
• Clayton Idol Finals Competition – 1-3 – West Stage
• Hot Dog Eating Contest –Earp’s Stage
• Hot Dog “Dog” Toss Contest – Earp’s Stage
• Pet Trick Contest – Earp’s Stage
• 50/50 Raffle
• Petting Zoo
• Beer Gardens
• Food of all types
• Music & Entertainment All Day (See schedule below)

West Stage – (Main & Fayetteville Streets)
10:00 Clayton School of Dance
10:15 Carolina Dance Productions
10:30 Bruce Naegelen (Folk)
11:30 Crossroads Church Youth Performance
11:45 Paul Bomar Quartet (Jazz)
12:45 Signs of Victory
1:00 CLAYTON IDOLS FINALS
3:00 Dance Art
3:15 Vintage Fresh (Rock)
4:15 50/50 Raffle Drawing
4:30 Mary Selvidge (Country)
5:30 Rhythm with A Reason
5:45 Addison Prophet (Acoustic Alternative Christian)
6:45
7:00 Central Park

East Stage – (Main Street IFO Kristoff Law Firm)
10:15 Fashion Show by Maurices
1l: 30 DPM Dance Show
12:15 Greg & Rodney (Classic Rock)
1:30 Sayer McShane (Motown/Blues)
2:45 The Will McBride Group (Funk/Pop/Latin)
4:00 Clayton Youth Theater

Clayton Mart Parking Lot (Main Street)
9:00 CHS Marching Band & Color Guard
9:30 Clayton Middle School Band
10:00 Riverwood Middle School Band
10:30 Revolution Self Defense Demonstration Show
11:00 Premier Athletics
11:30 Corinth Holders HS Band
12:00 Nicks Flippin’ Kids
12:30 World Taekwondo
1:00 W. Johnston HS Band

Sunday, Sept. 19
• Carnival from 1 - 5 pm

For more information, call the Clayton Chamber of Commerce at (919) 553-6352 or http://www.claytonchamber.com/

2010 Oktoberfest in Clayton Has Been Cancelled

The 2010 Oktoberfest scheduled for October 2 at Town Square in downtown Clayton has been cancelled due to financial considerations.

Business Destination Marketing Workshop with Jon Schallert Oct 13

The Clayton Downtown Development Association is participating in a workshop with marketing expert and small business strategist Jon Schallert on Wednesday October 13 from 8:30 am – 3:15 pm in downtown Wake Forest. The workshop is being hosted by The Wake Forest Downtown Revitalization Corporation.

The topic of the workshop will be ”Increasing Sales and Profits As A Destination Business” It’s not about tourism, but rather how to make your business a destination for customers.

According to Clayton Downtown Development Coordinator, Bruce Naegelen, the Denver-based Schallert is an engaging speaker with a proven record of helping turn a single-owner business into a destination for customers. Mr. Schallert was a keynote speaker at the 2010 NC Main Street conference and, Naegelen said, ”he had small business owners and those of us who work with small business absolutely mesmerized with his methods, process and results.”

There will be a three-hour presentation followed by a 90-minute marketing roundtable for participants. Althought the cost of the workshop is $125 per business and includes breakfast, The Clayton Downtown Development Association is offering to bring up to10 downtown business owners to the workshop for just $50 each including transportation.

Ed Knight, Chairman of the CDDA said, ”We feel Mr. Schallert’s presentation will provide important guidance to help our downtown businesses succeed and that is why the CDDA is willing to subsidize the registration fee.”   REGISTRATION FORM

For more information and to sign up, contact Clayton Downtown Development Coordinator Bruce Naegelen at (9190 553-1545 or bnaegelen@townofclaytonnc.org Deadline for signing up is October 1.

Embers to Close 2010 Town Square Concert Series Sept 16

Beach music legends, The Embers will close out the final performance of the Clayton Town Square Concert Series on Thursday, September 16.

This will be the first Clayton appearance for the Embers.

Sponsors of the 2010 Town Square Concert Series are: The Town of Clayton, Clayton Downtown Development Association, Clayton Glass & Mirror, Time Warner Cable, Clayton News Star, Clayton Steakhouse, Four Oaks Bank, Hometowne Realty, and Talecris Biotherapeutics.

Residents of Clayton are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets for this “free” public concert. There are several local vendors to provide light refreshments and food. The Clayton Downtown Development Association, Inc. will once again serve beer and wine. Concert Series updates can be found by visiting http://www.downtownclayton.org/

Several downtown restaurants offer pre-concert dinner specials, including The Flipside at 408 E Second Street, Clayton Steakhouse, 307 E Main Street, Mulberry on Main Italian Restaurant, 217 E Main Street as well as Festejos Mexican Grill, 905 E Main Street, Lucky Chicken Peruvian Restaurant, 226 E Main Street and Main Street Seafood Restaurant, 312 E Main Street.

The Clayton Downtown Development Association, Inc. is a non-profit organization formed to coordinate revitalization work in the historic downtown district. The Clayton DDA advocates and provides business improvement services in the downtown district, administers incentives for downtown improvements, and organizes several special events, including the Town Square Concert Series, Millstock Music & Art Faire, Oktoberfest and the Christmas Village & Tree Lighting.

For more information on the concerts and downtown news and events, visit www.downtownclayton.org. Or by calling (919) 553-1545 or bnaegelen@townofclaytonnc.org.

Jewelry Design Studio Expands to Storefront in Downtown Clayton

John & Jovi McFadden opened a work space for their jewelry business in an upstairs office in downtown Clayton last January waiting for the perfect storefront to come along. That opportunity came when Stuff 4 Office moved to a larger space just a couple of strorefronts away. John and Jovi sealed the deal and opened their new shop on September 7.

Jewelry Design Studio, 419 E Main Street offers handmade designs in solid gold, silver and other semi precious metals and gemstones.

They are excited to be in their own storefront and John said they have already experienced great walk-in traffic.

Hours are Monday-Saturday 11:00 am - 6:00 pm. (919) 553-7582 and on the web at http://www.jewelerjohnstudio.com/

Sugar Pea Boutique Opens in Downtown Clayton

Sugar Pea Boutique at 227 E Main Street in downtown Clayton opened this past Saturday. Owners Crystal Braxton and Holly Lee said opening day was terrific with a lot of people visiting the store and buying things. The store features boys and girls clothing from infant to 7 years old along with a selection of accessories and gifts.

Here's what the ladies have to say about their new store: video

You can contact Holly and Crystal at sugarpeaboutique@yahoo.com or by calling (919) 359-1610. Be sure to visit their website at http://www.sugarpeaboutique.com/.

Downtown Clayton Still A Draw - (Garner Clayton Record)

Despite the recession, downtown added eight businesses in a year.


BY SARAH NAGEM - Staff Writer  (Garner/Clayton Record)

When James Fawcett decided to open a restaurant, he scoped out spaces in downtown Apex and downtown Raleigh. But in the end, he chose the heart of Clayton for his eatery, Main Street Seafood. "We liked the small-downtown feel of the place," said Fawcett, 43, of Durham.

Fawcett isn't the only small-business owner who has recently set up shop in downtown Clayton. The town gained eight new downtown businesses between July 2009 and June 2010, according to the Clayton Downtown Development Association. Some say the growth is a sign that Clayton's core is weathering the storm of the recession that has shuttered many small businesses.

Along with Fawcett's restaurant, the new downtown tenants include three hair salons, two computer stores, a dance studio and a batting-cage company, said Bruce Naegelen, the downtown development coordinator.
(FULL ARTICLE)

Fall Book Sale at Library Saturday, Sept. 11

Thousands of books and DVDs will be on sale at very low prices Saturday, Sept. 11 at the downtown Hocutt-Ellington Memorial Library as part of the Friends of the Library Fall Book Sale.

Both new and used children's books will be on sale, too.

Proceeds from the event—planned for 8 am to 2 pm—will go to buy new books.

"We always have great books, books of all types," said Director Betty Coats. "It's always good, and it's going to be good this time, too."

Oftentimes, residents walk out of the Library on book-sale day with a large grocery bag full of books at a price cheaper than what one book would cost at a bookstore. This year the books, which are also sold individually, are going for $12 a bag.

Most of the books in the fundraising sale are duplicates that the Library doesn't have room to keep, though some have been donated by residents especially for the book sale as a way to help the Library raise money.

"People continue to donate books," Coats said. "We've been very lucky over the years to have wonderful support from the community. We've had good support this year, too."

Activities for children are also planned.

People from all over the area have crowded into the Library for sales like this over the last few years, taking thousands of books home with them and raising thousands for library activities.

The atmosphere has been similar to the floor of the New York Stock Exchange as frenzied people crowd the aisles, carrying books, DVDs and videotapes by the armload. Children of all ages move in and out with painted faces, adding to the carnival atmosphere.

“Hip Pocket Band” Town Square Concert Cancelled on Sept 9

Embers Still on for September 16

The Clayton Town Square Concert on September 9, featuring The Hip Pocket Band has been cancelled due to a scheduling conflict with a band member. The concert, originally scheduled for August 19 was rescheduled to September 9 due to weather concerns.

The Embers will perform from 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm on September 16 as scheduled and will be the last concert of the 2010 concert series which is organized by the Clayton Downtown Development Association.

Clayton Downtown Development Association Releases FY09/10 Downtown Statistics

Downtown Clayton showed a net gain of 8 new businesses and 19 new jobs from July 1, 2009 through June 30, 2010 according to statistics released by the Clayton Downtown Development Association. There was one business expansion; three facade improvements and two buildings were renovated. Private investment in downtown, including property purchases and improvements totaled $987,027. There was $1,113,704 in public investment, which includes local, state, federal funds and grants.

Downtown Development Coordinator Bruce Naegelen said there were only four businesses that closed in downtown in the past fiscal year, which is the fewest number of businesses closed since 2005/06 when statistical tracking began. He noted that three of those businesses closed because of personal circumstances. Naegelen said, ”The numbers show, again, that downtown Clayton has a reasonably stable business environment.”

During the past fiscal year, for every public dollar invested in downtown Clayton $.89 was invested privately, but the water/sewer/curb/gutter improvements to Second, Barbour and Church streets, accounted accounted for $875,000 of the $1.1 million in public investment.

Leslie Hubbard, chair of the DDA’s Economic Restructuring committee said, ”There has been less private investment this year than in the past, but the cumulative investment ratio still shows over the past four years that for every public dollar spent, $5.50 in private investment is made in downtown.”

DDA Chair, Ed Knight said the message to property and business owners, current and future is that, ”The Town of Clayton continues to value the importance of downtown with its project investments, including the recent Second Street project, but also the current Town Lot improvements at Lombard & Main and the upcoming Law Enforcement Center.”

The DDA keeps track of these statistics each year as one measurement of economic development in downtown Clayton. These statistics are also provided to the NC Main Street Center to help provide a statewide picture of downtown development. Other economic development measurements include an annual survey of downtown retail and service businesses and market analysis.

Children’s Boutique To Open Sept 4 in Downtown Clayton

Clayton and area residents will soon be able to buy children’s clothing locally. Holly Lee and her sister Crystal Braxton, along with their mother, Jeanne Bagwell will open Sugar Pea Boutique at 227 E Main Street in downtown Clayton on Saturday, September 4. The store will feature boys and girls clothing from infant to 7 years old along with a selection of accessories and gifts.

“As mothers ourselves we wanted a boutique nearby with cute, trendy clothes at a price that we wouldn’t mind paying ourselves,” said Holly Lee.

Co-owner and sister, Crystal Braxton said, “Being from the area and always frequenting downtown Clayton, we thought it was the perfect spot and we love the hometown feel.”

All three agreed that starting their own business in this economy is very scary, but their mother and co-owner, Jeanne Bagwell said, “With the support from the Clayton Development Association, our landlords, (Ernest and Joyce Blackley) and all the local business owners, the process has been very comforting. We think this experience will be great.”

“This is exactly the type of store we are trying to attract to downtown Clayton. There is a need for quality clothing stores in Clayton, especially for children and Sugar Pea Boutique will help fill that niche,” according to Downtown Development Coordinator, Bruce Naegelen.

You can contact Holly and Crystal at sugarpeaboutique@yahoo.com or by calling (919) 359-1610. Be sure to visit their website at http://www.sugarpeaboutique.com/.

Clayton Receives 2010 National Main Street Accreditation

Clayton and the Clayton Downtown Development Association have been accredited as a 2010 National Main Street Program.

North Carolina Main Street evaluated the organization’s performance during 2009 and determined it met all ten performance standards and criteria required to be named an accredited National Main Street Program and for meeting the commercial district revitalization standards set by the National Main Street Center.

The Clayton Downtown Development Association, Inc. (www.downtownclayton.org) is a non-profit organization formed to coordinate revitalization work in the historic downtown district. The Clayton DDA advocates and provides business improvement services in the downtown district, administers incentives for downtown improvements, and organizes several special events, including the Town Square Concert Series, Millstock Music & Art Faire, Oktoberfest and the Christmas Village & Tree Lighting.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation (www.PreservationNation.org) is a nonprofit membership organization bringing people together to protect, enhance and enjoy the places that matter to them.

Established in 1980, the National Trust Main Street Center® helps communities of all sizes revitalize their older and historic commercial districts. Working in more than 2,200 downtowns and urban neighborhoods over the last 30 years, the Main Street program has leveraged more than $48.9 billion in new public and private investment. Participating communities have created 417,919 net new jobs and 94,176 net new businesses, and rehabilitated more than 214,263 buildings, leveraging an average of $27 in new investment for every dollar spent on their Main Street district revitalization efforts.

Labor Compliance Posters Are Free! Don't Pay For Them!

Some of our local businesses have been contacted by companies selling Labor Compliance posters - and are pretty persuasive in their pitch. JUST SAY NO! These compliance posters are free through the NC Department of Labor. 

NCDOL requires all businesses in North Carolina to post a copy of the North Carolina Workplace Laws Poster in a conspicuous place where notices to employees are customarily posted. The poster, printed in two sections, contains information on some of the laws that NCDOL enforces, including occupational safety and health laws, wage and hour laws, and employment discrimination laws. Both the occupational safety and health section and the wage and hour section were updated March 2009.


In addition to the North Carolina Workplace Laws Poster (English / Spanish), businesses in North Carolina may be required by other state and federal agencies to post notices to employees about other workplace laws.

As a public service, you may download each of these posters individually or in a group on the NCDOL website. 

For more information on the federal poster requirements, visit the U.S. Department of Labor's Poster Advisor page.

Please contact the individual agencies with questions about their poster.

Community Showcase - Announcement of The Clayton Center Lineup and Concert This Friday

Stop by the Clayton Downtown Development Association booth and recieve a FREE "Think Clayton. Think Downtown" totebag!

Volunteers Needed for Town Information Desk

Town officials are looking for volunteers to help staff the Town Hall Information Desk at The Clayton Center left vacant by budget cuts.


Primary responsibilities include welcoming and directing visitors to the proper departments in both Town Hall and The Clayton Center and providing general information about the community.

"There's a need to have somebody there during the day," said Parks & Recreation Director Larry Bailey. "There's still a lot of new people coming into town who don't know much about the town or where things are. Once we get a group of volunteers, we'll try to match their schedules."

Anyone interested in volunteering is asked to call Bailey at 553-5777 for more information.

Already, members of several arts related and civid groups have come forward to volunteer. Officials hope to be able to staff the Desk with volunteers from 10 am to 2 or 3 pm each weekday.

The Desk has been empty for the last few weeks due to staff reductions forced by the scaled-down 2010-2011 town budget that cuts spending substantially but continues to hold the line on taxes. The final figure was even less than the already austere proposal suggested by Town Manager Steve Biggs. Among the final cuts was the town's long-published monthly newsletter to residents and the Information Desk staff.

"This will be a tough year," Biggs said.

Some projects are continuing as planned, including the new Law Enforcement Center, the "Downtown Plaza" project at Main and Lombard Streets and the upcoming street improvement project. But other normal spending patterns have been disrupted, including support for local non-profit agencies that depend on town money for improved services.

One department, the Parks and Recreation Department headed by Bailey, is expanding its operations this year despite cuts to its budget, mostly due to opportunities offered by the newly opened Clayton Community Center.

Staff reductions this year included 11 full-time positions and two part-time positions. In addition, three full-time employees are working reduced hours. Raises were eliminated for the second straight year. While the cuts, especially to staff, are painful, Biggs said the town must continue what he called "a demonstrated commitment to financial strength."

Matthews Motors Named Carolina Independent Automotive Dealer Association's Quality Dealer of the Year!

Steve Matthews, owner of Matthews Motors in Clayton, has been named the Carolinas Independent Automotive Dealer Association’s Quality Dealer of the Year for 2010. The award was presented at the CIADA’s annual meeting in Myrtle Beach, S.C.


Matthews will represent CIADA next June in Las Vegas, Nev. where the National Independent Automotive Dealer Association will select its winner.

Matthews from chosen from a list of nominees from the Carolinas. The winner is not chosen because he sells the most cars or has the most impressive showroom. The winner must exemplify integrity and honesty while conducting ethical business practices and be involved in the community. The staff at Matthews Motors prides itself on standing behind the vehicles they sell and the customers they serve.

“I’m excited and humbled,” Matthews said. “It’s the highlight of my career. Being the best of the best is something you strive for.”

Matthews opened his used car lot on U.S. Hwy 70 in Clayton in June 1994. He started out with three cars and boat, and his wife and young child at his side. Today the business has grown into a 7,500 square foot full-service facility and employs 17 full time workers.

Matthews is a strong supporter of the local schools, civic organizations and his church. He is also deeply involved in Clayton Area Ministries’ food pantry, where his wife, Dale, serves as director. The Matthews have two teenage children, Tyler and Morgan.

TONIGHT'S TOWN SQUARE CONCERT RESCHEDULED TO SEPT 9

THE TOWN SQUARE CONCERT SCHEDULED FOR TONIGHT, FEATURING "HIP POCKET BAND" HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED TO THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 9.

After much consideration and consultation the Clayton Downtown Development Association felt this was the best decision due to the unsettled nature of the weather forecast.

So, there will be two back-to-back concerts next month:
- September 9 with the Hip Pocket Band
- September 16 with the Embers

Hope to see you then!

DDA To Participate in Community Showcase August 27

The Clayton Downtown Development Association will participate in the Community Event Showcase on August 27 at The Clayton Center. Join us as we share news about our upcoming special events in Clayton and find out about many of the upcoming events in your area!


The showcase will feature community and civic groups who will chat with event-goers about upcoming activities in the Clayton area; we will be joined with other organizations including: Clayton Chamber of Commerce, Clayton Parks & Recreation, Clayton Youth Theater, Clayton Visual Arts, Clayton Farm and Community Market and Clayton Mid-day Rotary Club. The evening also will feature a concert by Mel Melton & the Wicked Mojos, the official release of the Center’s 2010-2011 season lineup, giveaways, door prizes, light refreshments and a cash bar. The first 100 people to purchase tickets also receive tickets to a private wine tasting event.

The mojo kicks in at 6 p.m. when the Community Event Showcase opens. Showcase participants will have giveaways throughout the evening. The Clayton Center also will sponsor several door prizes. The grand prize is two season tickets to the 2010-2011 Palladian Series, which runs from October through April. The total value of the ticket package is $270.

The concert will begin at 8 p.m. in The Clayton Center Auditorium following the release of The Clayton Center’s eighth season.

Mel Melton & The Wicked Mojos is a popular zydeco/Cajun flavored blues band. Nicknamed “The Zydeco Chef,” the multi-talented Melton cooks on stage as well as in the kitchen as owner of Durham’s Papa Mojo’s Roadhouse restaurant. He’s a classic blues harmonica musician who is backed by a talented band that gets its audiences out of their seats and on their feet before they know what hit them. When Melton describes the Wicked Mojos’ music, he says, “There's zydeco, of course, and Cajun and blues, and New Orleans jazz and funk. But as far as what we're playing, I call it Mojo Music."

Tickets to the event are $15. Each ticket includes admission to both the showcase and concert. For more information about the Clayton Center Season Kick-Off & Community Event Showcase, call The Clayton Center box office at 919-553-1737, Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-noon and 1-5 p.m. Don’t delay, buy your tickets now!

Tickets may be purchased at the box office, located at 111 E. Second St. in downtown Clayton, about 15 miles east of Raleigh, or by phone, or online at www.theclaytoncenter.com.

The Clayton Downtown Development Association, Inc. is a non-profit organization formed to coordinate revitalization work in the historic downtown district. The Clayton DDA advocates and provides business improvement services in the downtown district, administers incentives for downtown improvements, and organizes several special events, including the Town Square Concert Series, Millstock Music & Art Faire, Oktoberfest and the Christmas Village & Tree Lighting.

DDA Schedules Review of Updated Downtown Master Plan on Monday

A draft of the updated Downtown Master Plan layout will be available for review on Monday, August 23 at 10:00 am and 6:30 pm at The Clayton Center in Room GS223. The presentation will be the same at each session with the same opportunity for feedback.


The Downtown Master Plan concentrates on the commercial district of downtown from Robertson Street to US 70 Business. Downtown Development Coordinator Bruce Naegelen said, ”The master plan provides a general framework for the development of downtown and to provide reasonable certainty and predictability for investors.” He added, “The architectural and design guidelines are also being updated and will help shape growth in a way that preserves Clayton’s character.”

This past spring about 25 downtown business and property owners, as well as others attended two workshops to provide input into updating the 9 year old plan. Mr. Naegelen said there aren’t many significant changes in the layout, but the feedback was very helpful.

If you are planning to attend either workshop, please contact Mr. Naegelen at 553-1545 or bnaegelen@townofclaytonnc.org.

HIP POCKET BAND to Perform at Town Square Concert on August 19

When Hip Pocket shows up a party breaks out and the fun begins! Although they are not a beach band, they were named 2009 CBMA Award for Favorite New Artist. The group plays everything from Black Eyed Peas, Zac Brown, Josh Turner, Prince, Wild Cherry, George Michael, Keith Urban, Jackson 5, and Delbert McClinton.

They will perform this Thursday at the Town Square Concert Series from 7 pm – 9 pm. This will be the first Clayton appearance for the Hip Pocket Band.

Sponsors of the 2010 Town Square Concert Series are: The Town of Clayton, Clayton Downtown Development Association, Clayton Glass & Mirror, Time Warner Cable, Clayton News Star, Clayton Steakhouse, Four Oaks Bank, Hometowne Realty, and Talecris Biotherapeutics.

Residents of Clayton are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets for this “free” public concert, but coolers are not permitted. There are several local vendors to provide light refreshments and food. The Clayton Downtown Development Association, Inc. will once again serve beer and wine. Concert Series updates can be found by visiting http://www.downtownclayton.org/

And don't forget, The Embers will close out the series on September 16!

Several downtown restaurants offer pre-concert dinner specials, including The Flipside at 408 E Second Street, Clayton Steakhouse, 307 E Main Street, Mulberry on Main Italian Restaurant, 217 E Main Street as well as Festejos Mexican Grill, 905 E Main Street, Lucky Chicken Peruvian Restaurant, 226 E Main Street and Main Street Seafood Restaurant, 312 E Main Street.

The Clayton Downtown Development Association, Inc. is a non-profit organization formed to coordinate revitalization work in the historic downtown district. The Clayton DDA advocates and provides business improvement services in the downtown district, administers incentives for downtown improvements, and organizes several special events, including the Town Square Concert Series, Millstock Music & Art Faire, Oktoberfest and the Christmas Village & Tree Lighting.

For more information on the concerts and downtown news and events, visit www.downtownclayton.org. Or by calling (919) 553-1545 or bnaegelen@townofclaytonnc.org.

"Greening Your Business" Workshops Next Week At Small Business Center

The Small Business Center at JCC will offer the first of two fall "greening your business" seminars next Wednesday from 11am - 2:00pm here at the Workforce Development Center. These will be great for existing businesses or new entrepreneurs seeking sustainable business practices! And of course they are FREE!!!

Greening Your Business

Want to join the green wave sweeping the business world, but not sure where to start? Learn the principles and practices to start your business on the path to becoming more sustainable by adopting a triple bottom line approach that addresses people, the planet, and profit. Discover assessment tools, hear about local businesses successfully embracing this approach, and develop an action plan.

Course Code: SBC 3601 24F

Dates/Days: August, 25, 2010 (W)

Course Times: 11:00am - 2:00pm

Location: Workforce Development Center 1032

Instructor: Norton

Registration Fee: Free (You may bring your lunch.)

Book: None



The Business Benefits of Green

Engaging in green business practices is good for the environment, but what are the other benefits to business owners? Attorneys with Ward and Smith, PA, experienced in business tax, government contracts, and environmental regulations and compliance will discuss green business benefits, including green business values and sustainable development; green finance; and green government.

Course Code: SBC 3601 30F

Dates/Days: November, 17, 2010 (W)

Course Times: 11:00am - 2:00pm

Location: Workforce Development Center 1032

Instructor: Andrews, Norment & Wang

Registration Fee: FREE (You may bring your lunch.)

Book: None

Genealogist uncovers Clayton mill's history, troubles

CLAYTON -- Most folks nowadays probably don't know that crossing Mulberry Street toward the west side of town once meant entering a different community entirely.

That's what genealogist and longtime Clayton resident John McPhail discovered while typing up 1930 census data for the Johnston County Heritage Center. The 80-year-old document listed Liberty Mills as a separate place within Clayton Township. It was home to many prominent Clayton families, whose members all had now-unheard-of mill jobs, such as doffer.

Digging into the Heritage Center archives turned up more about textile maker Liberty Mills and the village surrounding it. It opened in 1907, and the area was later referred to as Cotton Mill Hill and Bartex as the company name changed. McPhail also found photos from the Library of Congress documenting child labor at the mill.

Read more: http://www.newsobserver.com/2010/08/16/630774/genealogist-uncovers-mills-history.html#ixzz0wlD0RnwB

Farmers Market Wants to Know its Customers

The Clayton Farmers Market, which brings about 250 people to Town Square each Saturday for farm-fresh food and crafts, wants to know more about its customers and intends to start asking.

The information could be a great help with marketing, said Market Board Chair Deborah Hooker.

"The Board's current big Project is to find out where, generally, our customers are coming from, how they found out about the market, what they think of the market, what they'd like to see at the market in terms of products and events, and so on," Hooker said. "We are drafting and refining a survey now, which we hope to begin conducting on-site, on the Square, beginning this Saturday or next, to find out those things." (full article)

New "Available Properties in Downtown" Link

We've updated the "Available Properties in Downtown Clayton" listing with a new look and location. You can access it under the "Helpful & Interesting Links" column to the right or directly at http://downtownpropertylisting.blogspot.com/

Either way, we hope it's helpful and informative and that you'll share it with folks you know who are looking to invest in downtown Clayton by buying some property or starting a business.

If you are a downtown business owner or property owner and would like to help market your property here, please send the pertinent information and a photo to bnaegelen@townofclaytonnc.org.

Facade Grant Article

Here's an article about facade grants in Clayton & Garner from the Garner-Clayton Record

Downtown Business News

Some things are happening in downtown Clayton - The Flipside is now open on Mondays for lunch and dinner! Stuff 4 Office has moved a couple of doors to 421 E Main Street to a larger space. They're still in "move-in" mode, and decorating but are open and operating. Moving in to their old space will be Jewelry Design Studio at 417 E. Main St. ( Beside Jones Lunch) They are currently located at 333 E Main Street in a second floor suite. They will be offering more services and hand-crafted one of a kind jewelry. Starting Sep. 01,2010 store hrs. will be from 10:00AM-6:00PM.Sugar Pea Boutique will be opening at 227 E Main on September 1 and offer trendy clothes, gifts for boys and girls. Downtown has to say goodbye to Cider House Studio, 436 E Main Street. Holley & Brandon Carpenter have relocated to a home-based office, but Holley will remain a volunteer on the DDA's Design Committee, providing design guidance and her wonderful renderings of what our downtown buildings can look like!

"Fiddler" This Week at The Clayton Center

It's Show Week! Don't forget to get your tickets to ...

Fiddler on the Roof

Friday, August 6   7:30pm

Saturday, August 7   2:00pm & 7:30pm

The Clayton Center

111 E. Second St.

Clayton, NC 27520

For tickets call 919-553-1737.

(Tickets will also be available at the door.)

$11 Adults; $6 Students

(*Price includes $1 service fee per ticket)

For more information about CYT visit http://www.claytonyouththeater.com/

Feel The Mojo At The Clayton Center - 2010-11 Season Release & Community Event Showcase Is Aug. 27

The Clayton Center celebrates the 2010-11 Palladian Series in style on Friday, Aug. 27, with an event guaranteed to get your mojo going.

The Clayton Center Season Kick-Off & Community Event Showcase will feature a concert by Mel Melton & the Wicked Mojos, the official release of the 2010-2011 season lineup, giveaways, door prizes, light refreshments and a cash bar. The first 100 people to purchase tickets also receive tickets to a private wine tasting event.

“We are excited to release the new performing arts season, and we’re really excited about this event.” Heidi Stump, executive director, said. “There are so many things going on right here in Clayton. We want to highlight these special events so people can take advantage of these opportunities. This is a fun way to do that.”

The mojo kicks in at 6 p.m. when The Clayton Center opens its doors to the Community Event Showcase. Civic and community organizations, including the Downtown Development Association, Clayton Chamber of Commerce, Clayton Parks and Recreation Department and Clayton Youth Theater, will be present to talk about their upcoming activities. Showcase participants will have giveaways throughout the evening.

The Clayton Center also will sponsor several door prizes. The grand prize is two season tickets to the 2010-2011 Palladian Series, which runs from October through April. The total value of the ticket package is $270.

The concert will begin at 8 p.m. in The Clayton Center Auditorium following the release of The Clayton Center’s eight season.

Mel Melton & The Wicked Mojos is a popular zydeco/Cajun flavored blues band. Nicknamed “The Zydeco Chef,” the multi-talented Melton cooks on stage as well as in the kitchen as owner of Durham’s Papa Mojo’s Roadhouse restaurant. He’s a classic blues harmonica musician who is backed by a talented band that gets its audiences out of their seats and on their feet before they know what hit them. When Melton describes the Wicked Mojos’ music, he says, “There's zydeco, of course, and Cajun and blues, and New Orleans jazz and funk. But as far as what we're playing, I call it Mojo Music."

Tickets to the event are $15 plus service fees. The first 100 patrons to purchase a ticket also will receive admission to the private wine tasting event. Wine tasting participants will vote for their favorite wines of the evening. The most popular wines will be served by The Clayton Center during the Palladian Series.

Light refreshments also will be served, and a cash bar will be open in the main lobby.

For more information about the Clayton Center Season Kick-Off & Community Event Showcase, call The Clayton Center box office at 919-553-1737, Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-noon and 1-5 p.m.

Tickets may be purchased at the box office, located at 111 E. Second St. in downtown Clayton, about 15 miles east of Raleigh, or by phone, or online at www.theclaytoncenter.com.

Popular artists presented in past seasons at The Clayton Center include Kathy Mattea, Ricky Skaggs, Johnny Winter, Jesse Cook, John Pizzarelli, Doc Watson, Eileen Ivers, Riders In the Sky, the Harlem Gospel Choir and David Sedaris.

New-Student Yoga Class Special!

Purna Yoga East is running a new student yoga class special. New students can buy a 3-class pass for only $25.00 that's valid for 21 days. Purna Yoga East offers day and evening classes 7 days a week. Choose from 20 ongoing yoga classes and nine Yoga Alliance-Registered Yoga Teachers. Pick the class and time that's right for you. Students who have never done yoga before or are just beginning a yoga practice should attend the Level 1 and Level 1-2 classes. View the complete schedule and purchase your yoga class pass online at http://www.purnayogaeast.com/.
Purna Yoga East is Clayton's yoga studio located in the heart of downtown!

107 East First Street
Clayton, NC 27520
919-270-4892

Clayton Visual Arts August Exhibit

Visit the Clayton Town Lot Project Blog for more information and updates!

An "Incredible" Way To Spend A Lazy Sunday

The Lazy Sundays Cinema At The Center film series closes this Sunday, July 25, at 3 p.m. with a showing of Disney Pixar's The Incredibles (PG). This 2004 animated action adventure follows a family of undercover superheroes who, while trying to live a quiet suburban life, are forced into action to save the world.

Admission is an INCREDIBLE $2.50. Popcorn, water, soda and other concessions will be for sale beginning 30 minutes prior to the movie. Concession proceeds benefit Clayton Youth Theater.



The Capital Bank and Parrish, Pulleyn & Young Wealth Management, Inc., Lazy Sundays Cinema At The Center film series is co-presented by The Clayton Center and Ava Gardner Museum.